Modular storage container

ABSTRACT

A modular container comprising a housing, a contained volume defined within the housing, and a door panel providing access to the contained volume in an open position and preventing access to the contained volume in a closed position. One or more interengagement features can be provided with the container such that a plurality of containers can be stacked atop each other to define a plurality of stacked containers. In some example embodiments, the container comprises at least one fan and one or more lights.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 62/414,835, filed Oct. 31, 2016, the entirety ofwhich is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to storage reservoirs orcontainers, and more particularly the present invention relates tomodular and stackable storage containers providing selective accessthereto and being powered to provide additional functionality.

SUMMARY

In example embodiments, the present invention relates to a modularstorage container including a container having a housing and defining aninternal contained volume, and having a door movable between an openposition providing access to the contained volume and a closed positionpreventing access to the contained volume.

In one aspect, the invention relates to a modular container including ahousing, a contained volume defined within the housing, and a doorpanel. The housing includes a front end, a rear end, sides, a top end,and a bottom end, the front end defining an opening, the rear enddefining a rear panel, the sides defining side panels, the top enddefining a top panel, and the bottom end defining a bottom panel. Thedoor panel is mounted to one of the panels and is movable between anopen position for providing access to the contained volume and a closedposition for preventing access to the contained volume.

In another aspect, the invention relates to a container including ahousing defining an internal contained volume. The container includesone or more complementary interengagement features for providingcomplementary interengagement with at least one other containercomprising complementary interengagement features. In example forms, thecomplementary interengagement features of the containers provide for theability to stack a plurality of containers atop each other and/or besideeach other to define a plurality of interconnected containers.

In still another aspect, the invention relates to A modular storagecontainer system comprising at least a first and second modularcontainer each comprising a top and a bottom, wherein the first andsecond modular containers comprise at least one accessory and a baseassembly. The first modular container is configured to sit atop andelectrically couple to the base assembly. The second modular containeris configured to sit atop and electrically couple to the first modularcontainer. The base assembly is configured to control the accessory ofboth the first modular container and the second modular container.

These and other aspects, features and advantages of the invention willbe understood with reference to the drawing figures and detaileddescription herein, and will be realized by means of the variouselements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appendedclaims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing generaldescription and the following brief description of the drawings anddetailed description of example embodiments are explanatory of exampleembodiments of the invention, and are not restrictive of the invention,as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a modular storage container accordingto an example embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 shows a front view of the modular storage container of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 shows a back view of the modular storage container of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 shows a bottom view of the modular storage container of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 shows an upper rear perspective view of the modular storagecontainer of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 shows a lower rear perspective view of the modular storagecontainer of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 shows a side view of the modular storage container of FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 shows a top view of the modular storage container of FIG. 1.

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of a base assembly for use with themodular storage container of FIG. 1.

FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of the modular storage container ofFIG. 1, and showing a pair of shoes within the container for storage anddisplay.

FIG. 11 shows a plurality of the modular storage containers of FIG. 1stacked atop each other to define an array of modular storagecontainers, and showing the base assembly positioned below thebottom-most modular storage container for providing power thereto.

FIG. 12 shows a rear perspective view of the array of stacked modularstorage containers of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of a plurality of modular storagecontainers of FIG. 1, showing the containers stacked atop each other ina side-by-side configuration to define a matrix of modular storagecontainers.

FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of a modular storage container systemaccording to another example embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 shows an exploded view of the modular storage container systemof FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 shows a front view of the modular storage container of themodular storage container system of FIG. 14.

FIG. 17 shows a back view of the modular storage container of FIG. 16.

FIG. 18 shows a lower rear perspective view of the modular storagecontainer of FIG. 16.

FIG. 19 shows an upper rear perspective view of the modular storagecontainer of FIG. 16.

FIG. 20 shows a side view of the modular storage container of FIG. 16.

FIG. 21 shows a perspective view of the base assembly of the modularstorage container system of FIG. 14.

FIG. 22 shows a lower rear perspective view of a exploded modularstorage container system according to an example embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 23 shows a front view of the base assembly of FIG. 21.

FIG. 24 shows a rear view of the base assembly of FIG. 21

FIG. 25 is an upper perspective view of the modular storage container ofFIG. 16.

FIG. 26 is a lower perspective view of the modular storage container ofFIG. 16.

FIG. 27 is a circuit diagram of the base assembly of FIG. 21.

FIG. 28 shows a modular storage container system of an exampleembodiment of the invention in which a plurality of modular storagecontainers are stacked atop each other to define an array of modularstorage containers, and showing the base assembly positioned below thebottom-most modular storage container for providing power thereto.

FIG. 29 shows a modular storage container system of an exampleembodiment of the invention in which a plurality of modular storagecontainers are stacked atop each other to define an array of modularstorage containers, and showing the base assembly positioned below thebottom-most modular storage container for providing power thereto.

FIG. 30 shows a modular storage container system of an exampleembodiment of the invention in which a plurality of modular storagecontainers are stacked atop each other in a side-by-side configurationto define a matrix of modular storage containers.

FIG. 31 shows a modular storage container system according to an exampleembodiment of the invention in which a plurality of modular storagecontainers are stacked atop each other in a side-by-side configurationto define a matrix of modular storage containers.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

The present invention may be understood more readily by reference to thefollowing detailed description of example embodiments taken inconnection with the accompanying drawing figures, which form a part ofthis disclosure. It is to be understood that this invention is notlimited to the specific devices, methods, conditions or parametersdescribed and/or shown herein, and that the terminology used herein isfor the purpose of describing particular embodiments by way of exampleonly and is not intended to be limiting of the claimed invention. Anyand all patents and other publications identified in this specificationare incorporated by reference as though fully set forth herein.

Also, as used in the specification including the appended claims, thesingular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural, and reference toa particular numerical value includes at least that particular value,unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressedherein as from “about” or “approximately” one particular value and/or to“about” or “approximately” another particular value. When such a rangeis expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular valueand/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values areexpressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it willbe understood that the particular value forms another embodiment.

With reference now to the drawing figures, wherein like referencenumbers represent corresponding parts throughout the several views,FIGS. 1-10 show a modular storage container 10 according to an exampleembodiment of the present invention. In example embodiments, the modularstorage container 10 generally comprises a housing comprising a frontend 12, a rear end 14, sides 16, a top end 20, and a bottom end 22. Thefront end 12 defines an opening 13 for providing access within thecontainer 10. In example embodiments, the rear end 14 defines a rearpanel 24, the sides 16 define side panels 26, the top end 20 defines atop panel 30, and the bottom end 22 defines a bottom panel 32. Inexample embodiments, the panels 24, 26, 30, 32 define an internalcontained volume 35, which is accessible through the opening 13. Inexample embodiments, the front end 12 preferably accommodates apivotally mounted door panel 34, which is movable between an openposition to provide access to the opening 13 and the internal containedvolume 35, and a closed position to prevent access to the opening 13 andthe internal contained volume 35. In example embodiments, the housingcomprising the panels 24, 26, 30, 32 is generally rectangular incross-sectional shape (as depicted in the figures). Optionally, thehousing can be shaped as desired, for example, generally cubical orsquare, hexagonal, circular or spherical, cylindrical, or othercross-sectional shapes as desired. In some example forms, the shape ofthe container can be configured for complementary interengagement withat least one other container, for example, to provide the ability tostack a plurality of containers atop each other and/or beside eachother, to define a plurality of interconnected containers, whichaccording to some example embodiments (as will be described below) canbe electrically connected when interengaged, connected or stacked withother containers 10.

In example embodiments, the panels 24, 26, 30, 32 are generallyintegrally connected together to form a generally unitary structure. Inalternate embodiments, one or more of the panels can be formedseparately and assembled together to form the container 10. As depictedin FIGS. 2-3 and 7, a dimension W1 is defined between the inner surfacesof the side panels 26, a dimension H1 is defined between the innersurfaces of the top and bottom panels 30, 32, a dimension W2 is definedbetween the outer surfaces of the side panels, a dimension H2 is definedbetween the outer surfaces of the top and bottom panels 30, 32, and adimension D1 is defined between the front and rear ends 12, 14. Inexample embodiments, the dimension W1 is between about 8-24 inches, forexample about 16 inches according to one example embodiment, thedimension H1 is between about 6-24 inches, for example about 12 inchesaccording to one example embodiment, the dimension W2 is between about9-32 inches, for example about 18 inches according to one exampleembodiment, and the dimension H2 is between about 7-30 inches, forexample about 14 inches according to one example embodiment. Thecontainer 10 defines a depth D1 that is generally between about 6-26inches, for example about 12.5 inches according to one exampleembodiment. In example embodiments, the depth of the interior of thecontainer 10 (e.g., defining the internal contained volume) is generallybetween about 7-24 inches, for example about 12 inches according to oneexample embodiment.

The front end 12 of the container 10 generally comprises an innerrecessed portion for receiving the door panel 34, for example, so thatthe door panel 34 is generally flush with the end 12 when in the closedposition. In example embodiments, the recessed portion is generallydimensioned to define a depth of between about 0.20-0.50 inches, forexample about 0.39 inches according to one example embodiment, and thedoor panel 34 generally comprises a thickness of between about 0.10-0.45inches, for example about 0.20 inches according to one exampleembodiment. In alternate example embodiments, the inner recessed portionand the thickness of the door panel 34 can be dimensioned as desired.

In example forms, the door panel 34 is pivotally mounted to the frontend 12 by two hinges 36. In the depicted example embodiments, the hinges30 are generally mounted to an upper portion of the front end 12proximal the top end 20, for example, such that the door panel 34generally pivots about a horizontal axis. In other embodiments, thehinges 34 can be alternatively mounted, for example on the side or lowerportion of the front end. In example embodiments, the hinges aregenerally spring-loaded or biased to force the door to a fully openposition. To provide closure to the door panel 34, a latch is providedat a lower portion of the front end 12, which preferably catches atleast a portion of the door panel 34 to keep it in a fully closedposition. In one example embodiment, pushing on the lower portion of thedoor panel 34 near the latch 40 causes the latch to release the doorpanel 34 such that the bias of the hinges 36 cause upward pivoting ofthe panel 34 to a fully open position. The bias of the spring can beovercome, for example, to cause movement of the door from an openposition to a closed position, by pushing on at least a portion of thedoor to the closed position, for example, such that the latch can catchthe door and keep it in a closed position.

In alternate embodiments, other hinges, pivoting mechanisms, latches,etc. can be used to accommodate moving the door between an open andclosed position. Optionally, the door panel 34 can be configured to atleast partially retract within one or more of the panels 24, 26, 30, 32,for example, so that in the open position the door panel 34 is removedfrom extending outwardly from the container 10. Further optional, thedoor panel 34 can be provided with a locking mechanism for secureclosure of the door panel. In some example embodiments, a handle orother grasping member can be provided with the door panel 34 to assistin opening and/or closing the door. In some example embodiments,standard hinges can be used and a magnetic closure mechanism can beimplemented to provide a removable securing mechanism for keeping thedoor panel 34 in the closed position. In some example embodiments, theopening and closure of the door panel 34 can be entirely automated, forexample, to automatically open and close the door panel 34 as desired.In some example forms, two door panels can be provided, for example,which can generally open and be received within one or more of thepanels of the housing, for example, to remain generally out if the wayand not interfering with an individual accessing the contained volume35. In example embodiments, when the door panel is pivotally mounted tothe housing, the door panel 34 can pivot about a generally horizontalaxis (as depicted), or the door panel 34 can pivot about a generallyvertical axis. In further example embodiments, the door panel 34 can beconfigured similarly to a garage door. For example, wherein a mechanismor other actuating member, component or system provides for movement ofthe door panel along a guidance track such that the door can movebetween the open and closed positions, either automatically or manually.In some example embodiments, the door comprises a plurality ofinterconnected segments or components, for example, to become compactwhen retracted or recessed within the container (e.g., thereby providingaccess within the internal contained volume).

In the depicted example embodiment, the door panel 34 is generallytransparent or at least partially translucent, for example, to provide aviewing window to see the contents stored within the housing. In otherexample embodiments, the door panel 34 can be generally opaque, forexample, to maintain privacy and prevent the contents within thecontained volume from being viewable, for example, unless the door panel34 is moved to the open position.

In example embodiments, the interior surfaces of the side panels 26comprise an array of shelving receivers or ridges 50, for example, whichextend generally horizontally along the interior surfaces of the sidepanels 26 from the front end 12 to an interior surface of the rear panel24. Preferably, a shelf or other divider member (not shown) can beengaged with an opposing pair of ridges 50, for example, to form adivider within the contained volume 35. Preferably, the shelf can bepositioned at any height within the contained volume 35, for example, togenerally divide the contained volume 35 into two areas, for example,wherein the shelf generally acts as a divider therebetween.

In example embodiments, the container 10 preferably accommodates beingstacked atop another container 10 (or multiple containers 10), forexample, to provide an assembly of multiple stacked containers 10. Forexample, when more than one container 10 is desirable, the containerscan be generally stacked or removably fitted with each other as desired(see FIGS. 11-13). In example embodiments, the bottom panel 32 comprisesa plurality of lower legs or stacking feet 60 for providingcomplementary removable engagement with a plurality of upper recesses orstacking receivers 62 of the top panel 30. For example, as depicted inFIGS. 2 and 4, the bottom panel 32 comprises four generallyblock-shaped, spaced-apart stacking feet 60, which are generallyprotruding from an outer surface of the bottom panel 32. In exampleforms, the feet 60 are generally spaced inwardly from an outer edge ofthe bottom and side panels 32, 26 and protrude from the outer surface ofthe bottom panel 32. In example forms, the feet 60 extend outwardly fromthe outer surface of the bottom panel 32 between about 0.25-2.5 inches.In alternate example embodiments, the feet 60 can be shaped as desired,for example, generally triangular, L-shaped, other polygonal shapes,round, oval, or other shapes as desired.

As similarly shown in FIGS. 5 and 8, the outer surface of the top panel30 comprises the plurality of receivers 62 for providing complementaryinterengagement with the feet 60 of another container 10, for example,to allow for one of the containers to be stacked atop another container10. In a similar configuration, the receivers 62 define four inwardlyspaced block-shaped recesses formed within an outer surface of the toppanel 30, which are preferably sized and shaped to provide complementaryremovable engagement with the feet 60 of the bottom panel 32. Inalternate example embodiments, rather than providing feet 60 andreceivers 62 for stacking, the top and bottom panels 30, 32 can comprisemagnets to removably mount the containers 10 together as desired. Insome example embodiments, the outer surfaces of the top and bottompanels 30, 32 are generally smooth and the magnets are integrally formedwithin the housing in a desired polarity configuration, for example, tocause the outer surface of the top panel 30 of a first container to beattracted to the outer surface of the bottom panel 32 of a secondcontainer. Optionally, the feet and receivers 60, 62 can comprisemagnets therein, which can further facilitate the removable connectionbetween the containers 10.

In some example embodiments, the container 10 can be provided with oneor more accessories, for example, for providing additional functionalityto the container 10. According to one example embodiment, the container10 can comprise at least one fan 82 and/or at least one light 86, forexample, for providing air ventilation to the contained volume 35 andfor providing light and illuminating the contained volume 35. In exampleembodiments, the rear panel 24 comprises an opening 80 that isconfigured for receiving a fan 82 (and optional filter) to provide airventilation to the contained volume 35. In example embodiments, the fan82 can force air from exterior the contained volume 35 to be inputtherein, or the fan 82 can be configured to withdraw air within thecontained volume 35 to its exterior surroundings.

In the case of storing articles of clothing or other objects potentiallyhaving an undesirable scent, the fan 82 (and optional filter) can beutilized in removing the undesirable scent from the article beingcontained within the contained volume 35 of the container 10. In someexample embodiments, the fan is generally fixedly mounted to the rearpanel 24, for example, such that the fan 82 is generally incapable ofbeing removed therefrom. In other example embodiments, the fan 82 isremovably mounted to the opening 80 of the rear panel 24, for example,such that it can be removed as desired. In some example embodiments, acovering or other member can be provided to mount or fasten to the rearpanel 24, for example, to generally close the opening 80 when the fan 82is not being used or when the fan 82 is removed from attachment with therear panel 24. In alternate example embodiments, a single fan isprovided in the bottom-most container 10 (or in a base assembly 90 asdescribed below), and air flow provided by the fan moves throughout thecontainers 10 that are stacked together. In some example embodiments,the container 10 comprises one or more air ducts or conduits forfacilitating the flow of air therethrough. In some example embodiments,when each container comprises a fan 82, one or more air ducts orconduits can be formed through one or more portions of the door, orhousing.

In example embodiments, one or more lights 86 (see FIGS. 1-2) can beprovided within the container to illuminate the contained volume 35. Inexample embodiments, the light 86 is generally housed within thecontainer and positioned near an interior surface of the top panel 30.The light color can be chosen as desired, for example, which can be awhite/natural color, or can be multi-colored and capable oftransitioning between a plurality of colors. In some exampleembodiments, a blue LED light can be provided for inhibiting bacterialand fungal growth, or for example, a UV black light can be provided forsimilar antibacterial properties. In example embodiments, the light 86is generally in the form of a light-emitting diode (LED), whichpreferably emits a substantially amount of light while not generatingmuch heat. Optionally, when it is desired to provide heat within thecontained volume, a heat lamp or other light capable of generating heatcan be provided as desired. According to one example form, the one ormore lights 86 are generally fixedly mounted to in interior surface ofthe top panel 30, or can be recessed within the interior surface of thetop panel 30. Optionally, the one or more lights 86 can be removablymounted to any of the panels within the container as desired, forexample, to provide the desired illumination and functionality.

In example embodiments, the container 10 can be electrically powered toprovide electricity to the fan 82 and the one or more lights 86. In oneexample embodiment, as depicted in FIG. 9, a base assembly 90 can beprovided, which is preferably electrically connectable with a standardelectrical outlet. For example, the base assembly 90 comprises an uppersurface 92 that has a plurality of receivers 94 that are configuredsubstantially similar to the receivers 62 of the top panel 30, and whichare preferably engageable with the feet 60 of the bottom panel 32. Thebase assembly 90 further comprises a pair of electrical connectors 96generally positioned near a rear end portion of the base assembly 90 (aswill be described below), and an electrical plug 98 extends from aportion of the base assembly 90 for connecting to an electrical outlet.With the electrical plug of the base assembly 90 connected to anelectrical outlet and with the feet 60 of the container 10 engaged withthe receivers 94 of the base assembly 90, the fan 82 and the one or morelights 86 are preferably powered and provided with electricity from theelectrical outlet. For example, as depicted in FIG. 6, the exteriorsurface of the bottom panel 32 comprises one or more electricalconnectors 70, which are positioned to be received within one or moreelectrical connectors 96 of the base assembly 90. Thus, with the baseassembly 90 connected to an electrical outlet, engaging the feet 60 ofthe container 10 within the recesses 94 of the base assembly 90 causesthe container to electrically connect with the base assembly 90 (viaconnection of the electrical connectors 70 with the electricalconnectors 96), thereby providing electricity to the container 10 toprovide power to the fan 82 and one or more lights 86.

Similarly, as depicted in FIGS. 5 and 8, the exterior surface of the toppanel 30 comprises a pair of electrical connectors 70, for example, suchthat another container 10 can be stacked atop the container that isconnected to the base assembly 90, for example, to provide electricityto both of the containers 10. In example embodiments, the electricalconnectors 70 are configured to complement stacking one of thecontainers 10 atop another, for example, such that the electricalconnectors 70 provided at the bottom panel 32 are generallyinterengageable with the electrical connectors 70 provided at the toppanel 30. For example, according to one example form, the electricalconnectors 70 at the bottom panel 32 are male connectors and theelectrical connectors 70 at the top panel 30 are female connectors.Thus, when a container 10 is stacked atop another container 10, the feet60 of the upper container are received within the receivers 62 of thebottom container 10 and the male electrical connectors 70 of the uppercontainer are received within the female electrical connectors 70 of thebottom container 10. Thus, preferably, a plurality of containers 10 canbe stacked together (one on top of the other) while providing anelectrical connection therebetween, for example, such that each of thefans 82 and one or more lights 86 can be powered.

Optionally, according to additional example embodiments of the presentinvention, a plurality of electrical connectors can be provided, forexample, instead of the pair of connectors as described above. Inadditional example embodiments, the one or more electrical connectorscan be provided generally anywhere on the containers, for example, sothat at least some type of electrical connection can be provided betweenthe containers when adjacent or stacked atop each other.

As depicted in FIGS. 11-12 and 28, three containers 10 are stackedtogether to form an array of stacked containers 10. As shown, the baseassembly 90 is coupled with the bottom-most container 10, therebyproviding electrical power to each of the containers. In exampleembodiments, as depicted in FIG. 12, each of the containers compriseelectrical conduit 72 (positioned within each of the rear panels 24) forfacilitating the connection of the electrical connectors 70, 96. Inexample embodiments, the electrical conduit 72 is generally integrallyformed with the rear panels 24, for example, such that electrical wiringcan pass therethrough to connect to the electrical connectors 70. Inexample embodiments, the electrical wiring is electrically connected tothe fan 82, one or more lights 86 of each of the containers 10, and tothe electrical connectors of the top and bottom panels. According to oneexample embodiment, about seven containers 10 can be stacked atop eachother, thereby comprising an array of seven stacked containers, as shownin FIG. 29. Optionally, more or less than seven containers can bestacked atop each other.

According to another example embodiment of the present invention, asdepicted in FIG. 13, the containers 10 can be stacked together to form amatrix of containers 200. In example forms, the size of the matrix ofcontainers 200 is a 4×3 matrix, for example, having four rows and threecolumns. In other embodiments, the matrix of containers is 3×3 as shownin FIG. 30. In still other embodiments, the matrix of containers can be7×4, as shown in FIG. 31. Optionally, the size of the matrix can bechosen as desired. In the depicted embodiment, each column of the matrixof containers 200 has base assembly. In example embodiments, the baseassemblies 200 are electrically connected such that the matrix 200 canbe controlled as a single unit. In other embodiments, a single baseassembly 190 can support multiple columns of containers 10. According toone example embodiment, a bracket or other mounting fastener can beprovided for securing the uppermost container to a support, structure orother generally stabilizing member. For example, to eliminate the riskof the containers falling over or unintentionally malfunctioning due toa user error, a bracket, strap, or other securing member or device canbe provided to ensure the stacked containers remain stacked atop eachother.

In example embodiments, a base assembly 90 is generally electricallyconnected to each of the bottom-most containers 10, for example, toprovide electrical power to each individual column of stacked containers10. In alternate example embodiments, a rechargeable battery can beimplemented into each base assembly 90, for example, such that the baseassembly 90 need not be connected to an electrical outlet to providepower to each of the stacked containers 10. Optionally, one or more ofthe containers 10 can be provided with a rechargeable battery to allowfor powering each of the containers 10 individually, for example, suchthat the containers 10 are not relying on an electrical outlet, or asingle battery supply from the base assembly 90. In some exampleembodiments, the electrical connectors 70, 96 can be in other forms, forexample, other electrically connectable connectors, which are generallyconductive and permit electricity to flow through the connection andpower each of the containers 10. According to one example form, theelectrical connectors can be generally wireless or include componentsgenerally found in wireless induction chargers, for example, such thatmerely placing one container atop another container provides anelectrical connection therebetween.

In example embodiments, the container 10 of the present invention can beused for various purposes. For example, as depicted in FIG. 10, a pairof shoes S can be stored within the container 10. Preferably, the fan 82can be utilized to provide airflow within the contained volume 35, forexample, to dry the shoes and remove any unwanted scents. For example,an individual wearing the shoes may remove them and place them withinthe container after use, for example, to extract and remove the moistureand undesirable scents, body and foot odor, bacteria, etc. from theshoes S. In some example embodiments, one or more scent-emittingdevices, filters, or other members can be provided for filling thecontained volume with a desired scent, which over time can cause theshoes S to have the same desired scent. According to one example form,the size of the container 10 is such that 1 pair of medium to high topshoes/heels can fit within the contained volume, or for example, twopairs of low top shoes positioned in a side-by-side configuration.According to another example embodiment, the container 10 is sized suchthat at least one pair of extra long boots can stand upright within thecontainer 10. According to another example embodiment, the container issized such that a single pair of low top shoes can be placed within thecontainer, for example, in a stacked configuration where a divider isprovided and positioned at the middle of the container, an wherein oneshoe is positioned on the divider and the other shoe is positioned on abottom interior surface of the container. In example embodiments, one ormore containers 10 can be used in an individual's home to providestorage and organization to their shoes, or can be used to showcasethem. In some example embodiments, a shoe store or other retailer canutilize one or more containers 10 to showcase or organize shoes or otherproducts that are for sale.

In other example embodiments, the containers 10 can be used in publicplaces such as water parks, amusement parks, bowling alleys, indoorplaygrounds and other places where an individual's belongings can besafely stored while being left unattended. In such situations, a lock orother tamper proof securing mechanism can be implemented with each ofthe containers, for example, to prevent theft and the likelihood thatthe individual's belongings could be stolen. In additional exampleembodiments, one or more of the containers can be used in other places,for example, gyms, schools, athletic complexes, yoga studios, spas,massage parlors, industrial plants, and other work places where it maybe desirable to provide a secure and convenient place to temporarilystore an individual's belongings.

According to another example embodiment of the present invention, thecontainers 10 can be used for storing or displaying hats, watches,helmets, clothes (leather, etc.), memorabilia, collector's items,jewelry, or other personal items. According to other exampleembodiments, the containers 10 can be used for storing/preserving fooditems such as wine, fruit, bread, cheese and other consumables. In someexample embodiments, a cooling module or refrigerator component can beimplemented with the container 10, for example, to ensure the food orconsumable remains at a desired temperature. According to one example,beef or other meat can be temporarily stored within the container 10 ata grocery store, and the cooling module can keep the internal volume 35at a desired temperature to prevent the meat from spoiling. In additionto the cooling module, the one or more lights 86 can be configured tofurther prevent fungal and bacteria growth, as described above.

In example embodiments, the container 10 is generally formed from aplastic or synthetic material, for example, which can be generallymolded or constructed such that the housing is generally one unitarypiece, or very few pieces to reduce assembly. In other exampleembodiments, the container can be formed from a metal, composite orother natural or synthetic materials, or combinations thereof. In someexample embodiments, a heating element can be provided for example, forremoving moisture from one or more objects or goods contained within thecontained volume 35, or for example, for keeping food or otherconsumable good warm. According to some example embodiments, when aheating element is to be provided, the housing can be constructed from aplastic material having high temperature resistance, or for example, thehousing can be constructed from a metal. In some example embodiments,when it is desired to maintain the internal contained volume 35 at acertain temperature, the housing (and optionally the door panel 34) canbe insulated as desired. According to some example forms, the container10 is formed from a solid plastic material. Optionally, the container 10is formed from a semi-solid plastic material, which can optionallyinclude an insulation material occupying the voids within the semi-solidplastic container 10.

According to another example embodiment of the present invention, thecontainer 10 and/or the base assembly 90 can comprise a control system,for example, such that the components of the container (e.g., light(s),fan(s), etc.) can be controlled via an automated system, or can becontrolled via an automatic timer and/or remote control. In exampleembodiments, the control system can control the lights, fans, and anyother electrical components that may be incorporated into thecontainer(s), whether using a single container or several containers. Inexample embodiments, the control system can comprise a timing featurewhere the user can set certain times where the fan or lights willautomatically turn on. The controls can either be on the base to controlthe entire array of stacked containers, or there can be an externalremote/phone app to control either each array of stacked containers orindividual boxes. In some example embodiments, a motion sensor isprovided in the base or in each individual container, for example, toturn on the lights (or other components of the container) when anindividual walks in front of one or more of the containers. According tosome example embodiments, the control system is compatible withconnecting to a wireless network (via WiFi), or for example, can beconnected to an electronic device via Bluetooth, or for example, can becompatible for communicating with IR or RF signals. In some exampleembodiments, the control system allows for a smart phone application toconnect, for example, to control the functionality of the container (andits components thereof) wirelessly and without any input directly withthe container or the base. In some example forms, a locking mechanismcan be controlled by the control system, for example, such that afeature on the smart phone application allows for selectivelocking/unlocking of the door of the container. In example embodiments,the control system can be housed within a portion of the housing orbase, or can be housed as desired. In some example embodiments, thecontrol system is housed within the base, and the plurality ofcontainers stacked atop the base (and electrically connected to thebase) can be controlled via the control system of the base. In otherexample embodiments, a control system is provided for each container.

FIG. 14-31 show a modular storage container system 100 according toanother example embodiment of the present invention. The modular storagecontainer system 100 generally comprises a modular storage container 110and a base assembly 190. The modular storage container 110 is configuredto sit atop the base assembly 190 and the base assembly 190 isconfigured to power various accessories in the modular storagecontainer. In example embodiments, a plurality of modular storagecontainer 110 can be stacked atop each other to define an array ofmodular storage containers. A base assembly 190 can be positioned belowthe bottom-most modular storage container for providing power to themodular storage containers 110 in the array.

The modular storage container 110 has a similar shape and dimension ofthe modular storage container 10 of the previous embodiment, having ahousing comprising a front end 112, a rear end 114, sides 116, a top end120, and a bottom end 122 which enclose an internal contained volume135. Like in the previous embodiment, the front end 112 modular storagecontainer 110 includes a pivotally mounted door panel 134, which ismovable between an open position to provide access to the internalcontained volume 135, and a closed position to prevent access to theinternal contained volume. Like in the previous embodiment, the doorpanel 134 can be pivotally mounted to the front end 112 by two hinges136. In the depicted embodiment, the hinges 136 are generally mounted toa side portion of the front end 112 such that the door panel 34generally pivots about a vertical access. To provide closure to the doorpanel 134 a magnetic latch 140 is provided at an upper portion of thefront end 112, which preferably provides for complementary engagementwith a magnetic portion 142 of the door panel 134, for example, suchthat positioning the magnetic portion generally near the pin causesattraction therebetween and connects the magnetic portion to the pinsuch that the door panel remains closed. In example embodiments, thehinges 136 are spring-loaded or biased as in the previous embodiment. Inone example embodiment, pushing on the side portion of the door panel134 opposite the hinges 136 near the magnetic latch 140 causes the latchto release the door panel 134 such that the bias of the hinges causeoutward pivoting of the panel to a fully open position.

As in the previous embodiments, the container 110 preferablyaccommodates being stacked atop another container 110 (or an array ofcontainers), for example, to provide an assembly of multiple stackedcontainers 110. The bottom end 122 comprises a plurality of lower legsor stacking feet 160 for providing complementary removable engagementwith a plurality of upper recesses or stacking complementarilydimensioned receivers 162 on the top end 120 of the container. In theexample embodiment, the legs 160 are generally square shaped. In exampleembodiments, the legs 160 and receivers 162 are positioned such that thecontainers 110 can be stacked in multiple directions. In other words,the containers 110 can be stacked such that the rear end 114 of onecontainer aligns with the front end 112 of another.

In example embodiments, the container 110 can include one or moreaccessories, for example, for providing additional functionality to thecontainer. The accessories can include at least one fan 182, a light184, and a heating element 186. As in the previous embodiment, thecontainer 110 includes a fan 182 positioned at the rear end 114 of thecontainer. The fan 182 is configured to provide air ventilation to thecontained volume 135, as in the previous embodiment. In the exampleembodiment, one or more channels or vent openings 152 are formed withina portion of the container, for example, to provide for adequateventilation or circulation. In example embodiments, when air is beingforced within the contained volume 135 (via the fan 182), the one ormore openings 152 permit at least some of the air to vent or pass thoughthe one or more openings and back to the container's exteriorsurroundings. In another example embodiment, when the fan 182 isconfigured to withdraw air from within the contained volume to thecontainer's exterior surroundings, the one or more openings 152 permitat least some air surrounding the container's exterior to be drawn intothe contained volume 135 and back to the container's exterior, therebyproviding adequate air circulation. In example embodiments, the fan caninclude a device for dispensing a scent into the contained volume 135.

In example embodiments, one or more lights 184 (see FIG. 25) can beprovided within the container 110 to illuminate the contained volume 135and/or inhibit bacterial and fungal growth. The light 184 is similar tothe previous embodiment, but in the container 110 the light 184 ispositioned in the bottom portion of the contained volume 135. Thecontainer 110 can also include one or more heating elements 186 (seeFIG. 26). The heating elements 186 can include a heating lamp or a lightcapable of generating heat. The heating element 186 can assist in dryingor warming the items stored in the container 110. In the depictedembodiment, the heating elements 186 are positioned on the top portionof the contained volume 135.

In example embodiments, the accessories of the container 110 areelectrically powered by a base assembly 190, shown in FIGS. 21-24. As inthe previous embodiment, the base assembly comprises an upper surface192 that has a plurality of receivers 194 that are configured to engagethe legs 160 of the bottom end 122 of the container 110. The baseassembly 190 also includes a pair of electrical connectors 196 and anelectrical plug 198 as in the previous embodiment. The base assembly 190also includes a female connector 199 positioned on the upper surface 192of the base. The female connector 199 is configured to engage a maleconnector 170 positioned on the bottom end 122 of the container 110 (asshown in FIG. 18). In example embodiments, the female connector 99 andmale connector 70 can comprise an electrical connection to power theaccessories of the container. In other embodiments, the female connector199 can comprise a spinning device configured to engage and spin themale connector 170 and thereby power the fan 182 of the container 110.In the depicted embodiment, the container 110 includes a femaleconnector 172 positioned on the top end 120 of the container 110 (asshown in FIG. 19). The female connector 172 is configured to engage themale connector 170 of a container 110 when another container is stackedabove it. This connection serves to link an area of stacked containers110 to a single base assembly 110.

In the depicted embodiment, the base assembly 110 includes one or moreswitches positioned on the front portion of the base panel. Theseswitches can include a power switch 150 and a fan switch 152. In exampleembodiments, the power and fan switches 150, 152 are two position rockerswitches. The base assembly 110 can also include a push button 154 thatallows a user to change the color of the light accessory 184. In exampleembodiments, the push button 154 can be pushed to cycle through thecolor options. In the depicted embodiment, a three position rockerswitch 156 is used to control power to the light accessory 184. Thelight switch 156 can be toggled between an on setting, an off setting,and a motion sensor setting. In the motion sensor setting, the lightwill illuminate when a motion sensor 158 positioned of the front of thebase assembly 190 detects motion in the vicinity of the container. Inalternate embodiment, the motion sensor 158 can be applied to otheraccessories of the container. In other embodiments, the lights can becontrolled by a two position, on/off switch. In still other embodiment,the base assembly 190 can be remotely controlled by an electronicdevice. The base assembly can communicate with the electronic deviceusing wireless means such as Bluetooth, inferred, or a wireless internetconnection.

FIG. 22 shows the electrical systems of the base assembly 390 of amodular container system 300 according to an example embodiment of theinvention. The base assembly includes a power cord 320 configured toplug into an AC outlet. The power cord 320 is coupled to an AC-DCadaptor. In example embodiment, the adaptor has an output of around 12volts and 5 amps and an input of between about 90 and 264 VAC. The baseassembly 390 also includes a PIR motion sensor 350 coupled to basecircuit 360 configured to manage the input from the switches on the baseassembly 390. The base circuit is coupled to the female connector 330which is configured to couple to the modular container 310 and therebypower and control the accessories of the modular container.

While the invention has been described with reference to exampleembodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that avariety of modifications, additions and deletions are within the scopeof the invention, as defined by the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A modular container comprising: a housingcomprising a front end, a rear end, sides, a top end, and a bottom end,the front end defining an opening, the rear end defining a rear panel,the sides defining side panels, the top end defining a top panel, andthe bottom end defining a bottom panel; a contained volume definedwithin the panels; and a door panel mounted to one of the panels, thedoor panel being movable between an open position for providing accessto the contained volume and a closed position for preventing access tothe contained volume.
 2. The modular container of claim 1, wherein aninterior surface of each of the side panels comprise an array of ridges,the ridges capable of interengagement with a shelf.
 3. The modularcontainer of claim 1, further comprising an opening formed within atleast one of the panels for receiving a fan, the fan providing airflowwithin or out the contained volume.
 4. The modular container of claim 1,further comprising one or more lights mounted within the container. 5.The modular container of claim 4, wherein the one or more lightscomprise blue LED lights for preventing fungal and bacterial growth. 6.The modular container of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of feetprotruding from an outer surface of the bottom panel.
 7. The modularcontainer of claim 6, further comprising a plurality of receivers formedwithin an outer surface of the top panel.
 8. The modular container ofclaim 7, wherein the feet and receivers are configured for complementaryinterengagement to enable stacking of one container atop anothercontainer.
 9. The modular container of claim 8, further comprising abase assembly, the base assembly comprising a plurality of receivers forproviding complementary interengagement with the feet of a container.10. The modular container of claim 9, wherein the base is provided withan electrical connector for connecting with an electrical outlet, andwherein one or more electrical connectors of the base are configured forelectrically connecting with one or more electrical connectors of thecontainer.
 11. The modular container of claim 10, wherein the one ormore electrical connectors of the container are provided generally neara pair of the feet of the bottom panel, and wherein the one or moreelectrical connectors of the base are provided near a pair of thereceivers of the base assembly, and wherein interengagement of the feetof the container with the receivers of the base assembly causeinterengagement of the electrical connectors of the base assembly withthe electrical connectors of the container such that the electricityprovided to the base assembly can freely move through the electricalconnectors to provide electrical power to the container.
 12. The modularcontainer of claim 1, wherein the housing is formed from at least onematerial selected from plastic, metal, composite or other natural orsynthetic materials, or combinations thereof.
 13. The modular containerof claims 3 and 4, further comprising a control system for controllingthe lights, fans, and any other electrical components that may beincorporated with the container.
 14. A container comprising a housingdefining an internal contained volume, the container comprising one ormore complementary interengagement features for providing complementaryinterengagement with at least one other container comprisingcomplementary interengagement features, wherein the complementaryinterengagement features of the containers provide the ability to stacka plurality of containers atop each other and/or beside each other todefine a plurality of interconnected containers.
 15. A modular storagecontainer system comprising: at least a first and second modularcontainer each comprising a top and a bottom, wherein the first andsecond modular containers comprise at least one accessory; a baseassembly; wherein the first modular container is configured to sit atopand electrically couple to the base assembly; wherein the second modularcontainer is configured to sit atop and electrically couple to the firstmodular container; wherein the base assembly is configured to controlthe accessory of both the first modular container and the second modularcontainer.
 16. The modular storage container system of claim 15, whereinthe accessory comprises one of a fan, a light, or a heating element. 17.The modular storage container system of claim 15, wherein the baseassembly is controlled remotely.
 18. The modular storage containersystem of claim 15, wherein the base assembly comprises aninterengagement feature configured to engage a complimentaryinterengagement feature of the first modular container.
 19. The modularstorage container system of claim 15, wherein the top of the firstmodular container comprises an interengagement feature configured toengage a complimentary interengagement feature of the second modularcontainer.
 20. The modular storage container system of claim 15, whereinthe base assembly further comprises a motion sensor configured tocontrol the operation of the accessory.